H-1B fee hike chokes off path for US grads; consultancies halt intake

Hyderabad: The recent H-1B fee hike is beginning to impact international students and fresh graduates in the US. A few Job consultancies, which often connect students with potential employers, have paused new applications, citing higher costs and reduced interest from companies. As a result, those without prior work experience are finding it increasingly difficult to secure opportunities.

Under the new rule, companies applying to sponsor a new H-1B visa must pay a one-time fee of $100,000 (Rs 88.6 lakh approx).